B Division Devon League Tavistock 2nd XI v Brixham 2nd XI TAVISTOCK were hoping their luck would change this year, but some habits die hard. After losing the toss Tavistock set about the task of making a defendable total on a soft bowler-friendly wicket. Things started badly as young guns Milligan and Josh Stephens fell in quick succession, leaving Tavistock on 26 for 2. Captain John McGahey joined newcomer Nick Goodchild and compiled a gritty 49 run partnership. When McGahey's misplaced drive was caught at deep mid-off Tavistock were better placed on 75 for 3. Unfortunately, Gliddon soon followed and veteran John Rich only lasted three balls, and with the unlucky run out of Goodchild backing up, the ball flicked off the bowler's foot and Tavistock were 85 for 5. Jefferys and James McGahey scored 11 each and helped Tavistock to a respectable 124 at the end of their 46 overs. Brixham found the going just as difficult, and with young Hutchins and Gliddon bowling at their best Brixham at 26 for 4 were in trouble. They were backed up by some excellent fielding; Goodchild behind the stumps took a brilliant catch down the leg side, Mill with a diving catch at mid-on and Downham with a sharp chance at second slip. Tavistock were in charge with captain McGahey changing his field regularly to keep things tight. Unfortunately then came the moment that changed the game. Placing himself close in on the drive he dropped a reasonably simple chance. Clark, who he dropped, took full advantage to make a fortuitous 62. Eaves backed him up with 30, but the luck had gone from Tavistock with the loss of this chance, as ball after ball dropped short or ballooned over fielders' heads. Tavistock fought hard and pushed Brixham all the way. James McGahey's only over was a wicket maiden, but in the third ball of the last over Cainter took a chance and lofted Hutchins for a straight six and a tight win for Brixham.
